change Archives

AppWizard

March 28, 2026

New Steam pricing tools could change what you pay for games

Valve has introduced new Steam pricing conversion tools for developers and publishers, allowing them to adjust game prices based on current market conditions, exchange rates, and local purchasing power. The tools offer three methods for currency conversion: using current exchange rates, incorporating average purchasing power data, and a combined approach that considers multiple factors. Developers retain control over pricing decisions, and not all games will see price adjustments, particularly major titles. The impact on pricing will vary based on individual developer choices.

Winsage

March 28, 2026

Windows 11 Update Aims to Cut Upsells and Improve User Experience

Microsoft is shifting its strategy for Windows 11 to reduce intrusive ads, upsells, and distractions based on user feedback. The company plans to scale back promotional content, particularly in the Start menu and system notifications, to create a cleaner user interface. The integration of Copilot, Microsoft's AI assistant, will be reduced in various applications to minimize distractions. Users will gain more control over updates, including the timing of installations and fewer forced restarts. Additional improvements include the ability to move the taskbar, enhanced performance and reliability, and a reduction of intrusive AI elements. Microsoft has acknowledged user criticism and is focusing on meaningful improvements in response to feedback.

Winsage

March 28, 2026

Update Windows 11 will block Denuvo hacking via Hypervisor

Microsoft has confirmed a major kernel security update for Windows 11, revoking trust in older drivers signed through an outdated cross-certification program. The update will ensure that Windows 11 accepts only software that has passed the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program's testing standards. This change aims to counter piracy attempts, particularly against a hacker known as DenuvOwOA, who bypassed Denuvo's anti-piracy protection by manipulating the embedded hypervisor and loading unsigned or vulnerable drivers. The new security policy will block the execution of such code, making existing hacking methods obsolete. The rollout will begin in compatibility assessment mode for Windows 11 and Windows Server & Hosting, with a hard block activated only if no stability issues are detected. Corporate clients can manually add certificates through the Application Control for business tool, while gamers will find it increasingly difficult to run hacked games relying on a modified hypervisor.

Winsage

March 27, 2026

Microsoft tells crusty old kernel drivers to get with the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program

Microsoft is enhancing the security of the Windows kernel by eliminating trust for kernel drivers not certified through the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP) starting with the April 2026 Windows Update. This change specifically targets kernel drivers signed by the now-obsolete cross-signed root program, which has been associated with security vulnerabilities. The new policy will initially be introduced in an "evaluation mode" to monitor and audit driver loads for potential compatibility issues. Custom kernel drivers can still be used under the Application Control for Business policy, but must be signed by an authority within the device's Secure Boot Platform Key or Key Exchange Key variables. The changes will impact Windows 11 versions 24H2, 25H2, 26H1, and Windows Server 2025.

Tech Optimizer

March 27, 2026

Bogus Avast website fakes virus scan, installs Venom Stealer instead

A deceptive website impersonating Avast antivirus tricks users into downloading Venom Stealer malware, which steals passwords, session cookies, and cryptocurrency wallet information. The site conducts a fake virus scan, falsely reporting threats to encourage users to download a malicious file named Avastsystemcleaner.exe. This file mimics legitimate software and operates stealthily, targeting web browsers to harvest credentials and session cookies. It also captures screenshots and sends stolen data to the command-and-control domain app-metrics-cdn[.]com via unencrypted HTTP. The malware employs evasion techniques to avoid detection and is part of a long-standing cybercrime tactic that exploits user trust in security software. Indicators of compromise include the file hash SHA-256: ecbeaa13921dbad8028d29534c3878503f45a82a09cf27857fa4335bd1c9286d, the domain app-metrics-cdn[.]com, and the network indicator 104.21.14.89.

Winsage

March 27, 2026

Microsoft reportedly sets movable taskbars to ‘Priority 0’ as it tries to regain faith in Windows 11

Users have expressed concerns about Windows 11's shortcomings compared to Windows 10, particularly the absence of certain features. Microsoft is prioritizing the implementation of a movable taskbar, designated as "Priority 0," indicating its urgency. Additionally, a resizable taskbar is categorized as "Priority 1." This focus on taskbar features reflects Microsoft's responsiveness to user feedback and a shift towards a more user-centric approach in refining the Windows 11 experience.

AppWizard

March 27, 2026

Android 17 to Finally Let You Exclude Specific Apps from Your VPN Connection

Using a VPN on Android can enhance privacy but may hinder access to location-dependent services. Many users utilize "split tunneling" to exclude specific apps from the VPN connection, allowing access to these services. Android 17 Beta 3 is set to standardize split tunneling across the operating system, providing a cohesive settings screen for users to manage app exceptions. This development aims to simplify the user experience by eliminating the need to navigate different VPN app interfaces. Users will be able to configure specific apps, like banking applications, to use their local IP address while keeping other web traffic secure under the VPN. The feature is still in development and will require updates from VPN applications to utilize the new system screen.

Winsage

March 27, 2026

A quick tour of the new Windows 11 Feedback Hub

Microsoft is transforming its Windows 11 ecosystem by launching a redesigned Feedback Hub app. The update features a new "Give Feedback" page for submitting bug reports, feature requests, and compliments. Users can search for existing issues, categorize feedback, and use a built-in capture tool for screenshots. The app includes a "My feedback" page to track submissions and a "Community feedback" section for user interaction. Core functionalities remain, with enhanced privacy options. Additionally, Microsoft is resetting the Windows Insider Program to improve user engagement and transparency regarding feedback's impact on Windows development.

AppWizard

March 26, 2026

That Hunter: The Reckoning game that was accidentally leaked on Steam is now officially revealed as a new FPS RPG

Hunter: The Reckoning - Deathwish was revealed during the Xbox Partner Preview showcase, set in New York City. Players will take on the role of a hunter in a game that incorporates more RPG elements than previous titles from developer Teyon. The game features a diverse cast of NPCs to enhance storytelling. However, the publisher Nacon has filed for insolvency, which may affect the game's development timeline and could lead to delays or a change in publisher.

AppWizard

March 26, 2026

How to Install & Use Stream Cinema App on Android/Google TV

Stream Cinema is a media center application that enables users to stream Video on Demand content and supports various Stremio Addons. It can be installed on devices like the Onn 4K Pro, NVIDIA SHIELD, and Google TV Streamer, but currently does not have an APK for Firestick or Fire TV. The free version offers robust features, while the Premium version costs .99 per year or .99 for a lifetime subscription, providing additional benefits like favorites management and trailer access. The installation process involves downloading the app from the Google Play Store, enabling external sources, and configuring third-party addons. Users can connect to TorrentsDB for streaming links and are advised to use a VPN for privacy. The app features a modern user interface, quick playback, and limited settings. While its legality is uncertain, its presence on Google Play suggests some vetting.